Labour Council neglects pensioners - Lunches under threat

12.00.00am GMT Fri 1st Feb 2002

A luncheon club for older people which caters for nearly 1,400 per month (or over 300 every week) is under threat of closure as Hounslow Council's Social Services Department has said it will be withdrawing the £38,000 funding. In its place a Meals on Wheels service is proposed. Age Concern provides what many community organisations have acknowledged is an excellent facility, both socially and nutritionally.

Local campaigner Andrew Dakers said:

"The elderly who are isolated, live alone and depend on special transport will loose a lifeline. The implications are that loneliness and depression may increase. This is surely a retrograde step to take.

"Liberal Democrats believe better prioritisation of spending is required. Brentford & Isleworth needs less spending on glossy magazines and reports and instead delivery of essential public services."